Liberia, Africa’s oldest republic, was established in 1822 with settlements of freed American slaves. A strong government for more than 100 years did much to encourage foreign investment and improve the economic, social and physical conditions of its citizens. However, in the last 26 years, Liberia has been marked by political upheaval, including coups, assassinations, and a prolonged civil war. Liberia’s political instability has resulted in chronic displacement and poverty—today 80% of the population lives below the poverty line. The basic health care and social service infrastructure was essentially decimated during the last 15 years of civil war. In 2005, conflict ceased and free and fair elections brought to power Africa’s first duly elected female head of state – Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.

Malaria is widespread in Liberia, with 56% of the country exposed to infection. It is leading cause of death among children under five years old. Pregnant women who develop severe anemia as a result of malaria are at extreme risk of death, due to the lack of health care facilities and access to emergency obstetric care.

NetsforLife^® Implementing Partner

NetsforLife will partner with the Diocese of Liberia, which is part of the Church of the Province of West Africa. Historically, the diocese has been very active in building the educational infrastructure of the country. In the aftermath of the civil war, the diocese is focusing on supporting communities in need of the basics – food, clean water and sanitation, health care, and education.

* Data on Liberia based on figures from United Nations Human Development Reports, Liberia, 2000.
** Data on Liberia based on figures from Globalis Country Report, 2000.